Really, it is. If you attempt to go any other direction you will very likely fall over, as I discovered when I tried to step backwards (fell over) or even when I tried to turn on the spot (stepped on my own snowshoes and nearly fell over). At least the landing is soft! Having said that though, follow that very easy technique of always stepping forward, maybe just a tiny bit John Wayne like, and it is a doddle. It's just walking after all; you just get to go much farther than you normally would on foot in snow! Foolproof!

While the gods of weather were not on our side this week with clouds lurking low most days, the fresh snow blanketing the forests each day was absolutely beautiful, and made the moments we had of blue skies and fantastic views all the more special. 

We had absolute confidence in our guide Ivo, who has been leading KE trips in Bulgaria for years. He knows the mountains like the back of his hand, which meant that he was always able to adapt the itinerary as appropriate whenever required and made sure that we all had a good day out.

We found the trails in Rila National Park were so quiet, we did not see another soul until we reached the mountain huts and even so, it was still far from busy and it felt like we had the mountainside exclusively to ourselves. What a serene experience to feel so isolated in a stunning location, to stop still and enjoy the pure silence with snowflakes softly drifting down around you. Magical. With amazing local staff, a good standard of accommodation throughout and delicious food provided, all you have to do is show up and enjoy your winter experience. What are you waiting for? Discover this gem of a holiday for yourself!

Blagodarya Bulgaria, I hope to see you again.

Want to know more about our winter holidays? Just give us a call on +44 (0) 17687 73966 or USA/Canada toll-free 1888 630 4415.